How to choose what to study?

If you are planning on attending university, the transition to post-secondary education can be both exciting and confusing. One of the questions on every student's mind is 'How do I choose a program?' To help you get started with the process, we've put together a simple 5-step plan.

Reflect on yourself

How do you like to work, to study? Here are some areas that you might want to reflect on to help you choose a program that meets your personal needs and your career goals.

• Think about what interests you
• If you study a topic that genuinely interests you, it will be much easier to focus, study, and work on your assignments.

• Consider your strengths
• What are your areas of interest?

• Are you interested in long or short-term studies? 
• UFV offers bachelor's degrees, diplomas, and certificates that range in length from 4 years to 1 year. If you are interested in a shorter program, check out Continuing Education. 

• Do you have a career in mind?
• Find out how to sample career pathways with experiential learning.

Explore program options

UFV offers more than 100 programs, including master’s degrees, certificates, diplomas:

Gather information about the cost of studying at university

• How much does it cost?
• The cost to study at UFV varies depending on several factors: what program you are studying, the number of courses you are taking, whether you are a domestic or international student, and whether you are taking an undergraduate or postgraduate program.
• Visit the Fees and payments page on the admission website to find out approximately how much your tuition and other expenses will be.

• How to fund your education?
• There are many opportunities for you to receive financial support to help pay for your education at UFV, including funding for Indigenous students.

Evaluate your options and make a decision

• Do you need to upgrade to meet admission requirements for your program? 
• UFV's Upgrading and University preparation offers several programs and courses that can help you get ready for university studies and meet entrance requirements for your chosen program.
  • View all UFV upgrading options »
  • View upgrading options at other institutions »

• Have you missed an application deadline or don’t yet meet the requirements for your goal program?
• You may still be able to start at UFV in Qualifying Studies.
• Look into Qualifying Studies »

• Coming to UFV from another institution?
• See how your classes at other post-secondary institutions may transfer to UFV.
• Check the BC Transfer Guide »

Take action: apply for admission to UFV

• Ready to apply to UFV?
• Follow three simple steps to apply.

• When can I start?
• Check important admissions dates and deadlines.

• What else do I need?
• After you’ve applied, you’ll need to order and submit your official transcripts (high school and post-secondary).

• Questions about the application process?
• Talk to a student recruiter if you have questions about admission.